Red Potato Soup has been a staple in my kitchen, especially on those chilly evenings when all I crave is something warm and comforting. I remember my mom making it when I was a kid; the aroma of simmering potatoes and savory broth would fill our whole house, promising a delicious meal. This recipe for creamy red potato soup is my spin on that classic, focusing on simple steps for how to make red potato soup that tastes like it came from a gourmet restaurant, even on a busy weeknight. It’s so satisfying, with a wonderfully smooth texture and rich flavor. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Red Potato Soup
This recipe is a winner for so many reasons. It’s the perfect balance of rich, savory flavor and comforting warmth, making it a true crowd-pleaser. You’ll adore how quick it is too – a fantastic option for a weeknight meal!
- Incredibly satisfying with a rich, creamy texture that’s pure comfort in a bowl.
- Ready in under an hour, making it an ideal easy red potato soup for busy evenings.
- Packed with wholesome ingredients, offering a nutritious alternative to heavier meals.
- Super budget-friendly; uses simple pantry staples you likely already have on hand.
- A guaranteed hit with the whole family, from picky eaters to adults.
- This homemade red potato soup tastes like it simmered for hours, but it’s surprisingly simple.
- Versatile enough to be customized with your favorite herbs and spices.
Red Potato Soup Ingredients
Gathering the right red potato soup ingredients is key to achieving that perfect, comforting flavor. My favorite part about this red potato soup recipe is how accessible everything is!
- 4 cups red potatoes, diced – these are the star, providing a creamy texture and slightly sweet flavor when cooked.
- 1 medium onion, chopped – adds a savory base and aromatic depth.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – for that essential punch of flavor that complements the potatoes.
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth – forms the liquid base of our soup, choose your favorite for added flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream – this is our secret weapon for achieving that luscious, creamy red potato soup texture.
- 2 tablespoons butter – to sauté the aromatics and add a touch of richness.
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste) – brings out all the other flavors.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper – for a gentle warmth.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme – adds a lovely herbaceous note that pairs beautifully with potatoes.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) – for a pop of color and freshness at the end.
How to Make Red Potato Soup
Let’s get this delicious soup simmering! Making this red potato soup recipe is surprisingly straightforward. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can whip up this comforting dish.
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats up, get your ingredients prepped. Dice the red potatoes into bite-sized pieces, chop your medium onion, and mince those garlic cloves.
- Step 2: Grab a large pot or Dutch oven. Melt the 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, add the chopped onion and sauté until it starts to soften and become translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, toss in the minced garlic and cook for just another minute until fragrant – be careful not to burn it!
- Step 3: Add the diced red potatoes and the 4 cups of broth to the pot. Give everything a good stir to combine the softened onions and garlic with the potatoes and liquid.
- Step 4: Now for the seasonings! Stir in the 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of dried thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently.
- Step 5: Let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the red potatoes are fork-tender. You should be able to easily pierce them with a fork. The aroma at this stage is just wonderful!
- Step 6: For that signature velvety texture, you can make this a creamy red potato soup. If you have an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup directly in the pot until it reaches your desired smoothness. If not, you can transfer batches to a regular blender (just be cautious with hot liquids!). For a truly simple red potato soup, you can skip blending and enjoy it chunky.
- Step 7: Stir in the 1 cup of heavy cream. Gently heat the soup through, but be careful not to let it boil after adding the cream, as it can curdle.
- Step 8: Give your finished soup a taste. Adjust the salt and pepper if needed.
- Step 9: Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Garnish generously with the 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Pro Tips for the Best Red Potato Soup
I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that elevate this simple soup from good to absolutely amazing. These little tips make a big difference in the final flavor and texture.
- Always use red potatoes! Their waxy texture and slightly sweet flavor are perfect for soup, and they hold their shape better than starchy potatoes.
- Don’t skip the sautéing step for the onions and garlic. This builds a fundamental layer of flavor that makes the soup so much richer.
- Taste and adjust seasonings at the end. Broth and salt levels can vary, so a final check ensures perfect balance.
What’s the secret to perfect red potato soup?
The real magic for a wonderfully thick red potato soup comes from not over-blending. Leave a little texture, and using the starchy water from boiling the potatoes can also help thicken it naturally! For more information on thickening soups, you can check out resources on soup thickening techniques.
Can I make red potato soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup is fantastic for meal prep. You can make it a day in advance, and it often tastes even better the next day. It’s perfect for a planned red potato soup for dinner without the last-minute rush. Explore more recipes for future meal planning.
How do I avoid common mistakes with red potato soup?
A common pitfall is ending up with a watery soup. To prevent this, don’t add too much extra broth initially; you can always thin it out later. Also, ensure your potatoes are fully cooked and tender before blending for the best creamy consistency.
Best Ways to Serve Red Potato Soup
This comforting soup is a meal in itself, but it also pairs wonderfully with a few select sides. Thinking about what to serve with red potato soup can really round out your meal.
For a classic pairing, a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette offers a fresh contrast to the soup’s richness. Crusty bread or homemade biscuits are also fantastic for dipping into that creamy goodness. If you’re looking for something more substantial, consider serving it alongside a turkey meatloaf recipe – a timeless combination that never disappoints!
Variations of Red Potato Soup You Can Try
This red potato soup recipe is so versatile, you can tweak it endlessly! I love exploring different versions to keep things exciting. For those looking for plant-based options, a vegan red potato soup is easily achieved by swapping the heavy cream for full-fat coconut milk or a cashew cream and using vegetable broth. It’s surprisingly rich and decadent!
If you’re a fan of smoky flavors, a red potato soup with bacon is a must-try. Cook your favorite bacon until crisp, crumble it for garnish, and use a tablespoon or two of the rendered bacon fat to sauté your onions and garlic for an extra layer of savory depth. For those avoiding dairy, a dairy-free red potato soup can be made using full-fat coconut milk or a plant-based creamer, offering a similar creamy texture without the dairy. You might also enjoy our boat dip for a different kind of creamy appetizer.
Frequently Asked Questions About Red Potato Soup
What makes this the best red potato soup?
I think this recipe stands out because it balances simplicity with incredible flavor. The key is using good quality red potatoes and not over-blending, which helps create a wonderfully creamy texture without being overly heavy. It’s a truly satisfying bowl that feels both rustic and refined.
Can I make this a quick red potato soup for a busy weeknight?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for about 45 minutes total, you can speed things up by dicing your potatoes and onions ahead of time. Pre-chopped garlic also helps. The blending step is also quite fast, making it a very manageable quick red potato soup option. For more quick meal ideas, check out our Korean BBQ Meatballs.
Why is my red potato soup watery?
Often, a watery soup happens when too much liquid is added initially. Start with the amount of broth specified, and if you want it thinner after blending, add more liquid a little at a time. Over-boiling after adding cream can also sometimes affect consistency, so just heat it through gently.
Can I add other vegetables to my red potato soup?
Yes, you can! Many people love adding finely chopped carrots or celery along with the onions for extra flavor and nutrients. Some even add a handful of peas or corn towards the end of cooking. It’s a very adaptable dish!
Nutrition Facts for Red Potato Soup
This information is for one serving, which is approximately 1.5 cups of our delicious red potato soup.
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 750mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
How to Store and Reheat Red Potato Soup
Properly storing your delicious red potato soup ensures you can enjoy its comforting flavors for days to come. Once the soup has cooled slightly, transfer it to airtight containers. For refrigerator storage, it will keep well for about 3 to 4 days. This makes it perfect for planning ahead and having leftovers for a quick lunch or an easy red potato soup for dinner later in the week.
If you want to keep this delightful soup for longer, freezing is an excellent option. Ladle the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving a little headspace as liquids expand. Your homemade soup can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Avoid boiling, especially if cream was added. Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave. If the soup seems a bit thick after storing, you can always thin it out with a splash of broth or milk to reach your desired consistency.
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Red Potato Soup: 1 Hour Creamy Comfort
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This creamy red potato soup recipe is a comforting and hearty meal. It’s easy to make with simple ingredients and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a family gathering.
Ingredients
- 4 cups red potatoes, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients. Dice the red potatoes, chop the onion, and mince the garlic.
- Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook for 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
- Add diced red potatoes and broth to the pot. Stir to combine.
- Season with salt, pepper, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
- Simmer for 20 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
- Optional: Use an immersion blender to purée the soup to your desired consistency for a creamy red potato soup.
- Stir in heavy cream. Heat through but do not boil.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Ladle the red potato soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- Adjust consistency by blending more potatoes for a thicker soup or adding broth for a thinner soup.
- A splash of lemon juice or vinegar can brighten flavors.
- Add other vegetables like carrots or celery with the onions.
- Experiment with spices like paprika or cumin for added flavor.
- For a vegan red potato soup, use coconut milk or cashew cream and vegetable broth.
- For a cheesy red potato soup, stir in shredded cheese after blending.
- For a bacon lovers’ version, cook bacon first and use the drippings for flavor, then crumble bacon as a garnish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1.5 cups
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: N/A
- Sodium: N/A
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: N/A
- Unsaturated Fat: N/A
- Trans Fat: N/A
- Carbohydrates: N/A
- Fiber: N/A
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: N/A
